Having fantastic and distinctive style doesn’t have to come at the expense of your bank account. Here are a few tips on how to put together a wardrobe that you’ll love, without having to cringe every time you make a purchase.

1. Have Vision

I can’t tell you how many amazing pieces I have found that were very well disguised. For instance, a great pair of leather boots might not look too hot on a thrift store rack – but with a little vision and shoe polish, they could be a staple in your wardrobe! Ditto for jewelry. You can find some awesome pieces that might be hiding their panache under years of tarnish. Some elbow grease could reveal a diamond in the rough.

2. Become A Great DetectiveWouldn’t it be awesome if you could waltz into a store, find a million things that you love, and do a jig about the reasonable price tag? This is one of life’s unfortunate disappointments, but don’t despair! Whether you’re a Goodwill shopper or an eBay expert, troll your stomping grounds often. Give yourself some time to browse the racks. The denim jacket that you’ll someday be passing down to your children, might just be hiding underneath your nose.

3. Think Ahead
One word: staples. Buy what you love and think into the future. Would you rather spend a bit on a pair of boots that you’re madly in love with, or buy three pair of shoes that you feel ho-hum about? Sometimes, spending a little bit more on an item that you’ll get a ton of wear out of makes more sense than opting for the cheaper option. Also, you might just end up saving money in the long run, since you’re making a “fashion investment.”

4. Be PickyDon’t buy something just because it’s a steal. Before you storm up to the cash register, ask yourself the age-old question: “Can I see myself wearing this in six months?” If the answer is no, put the item down and step away before you leave your wallet a little lighter. But there are exceptions; you might not wear that awesome sequined vest or that vintage cowboy hat everyday, but if it feels super special and the price is right, go for it.

5. Think About Your Style
What clothes make you feel happy? Forget about what you’re seeing on the racks of department stores, or on the pages of catalogs. Trendy items rarely make for a long house-guest in your closet. I cringe when I think of how many items I’ve discarded after a few months. They also tend to cost a lot during their five minutes of fame. When you stick to pieces that really speak to you, you’re creating a completely unique and special style.